Designed by <a href="http://www.venturatrindade.com" target="_blank">Ventura Trindade Architects</a>, and completed in 2009, the <a href="http://www.ceai.pt/ebg/#ebg_enquadramento" target="_blank">Garducho Biological Center</a> in Mourão, Portugal is a site sensitive construction built to aid in the preservation of the region's natural beauty. Because of its incredibly isolated location, the center operates completely off grid and generates its own power via a photovoltaic system set on the roof. Water saving measures were also important in the design, and the structure both collects and stores captured rainwater.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

The aim of the <a href="http://www.ceai.pt/ebg/#ebg_enquadramento" target="_blank">Garducho Biological Center (Estação Biológica do Garducho)</a> is to foster sensitivity of civil society to the importance of biodiversity.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

They also aim to increase scientific knowledge on the species and habitats in the region.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

The center not only seeks to disseminate scientific knowledge of biodiversity.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

They also seek to spread the use of environmentally sustainable materials and technologies.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

The research center provides opportunities for young researchers and for international collaborations.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

The design of the center places a strong focus on minimizing impact on the surrounding environment.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Stairs leading up to the rooftop deck.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Observation deck for the researchers and visitors.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

360 degree views are available on the roof.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Inside the research station.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Cataloguing and storage area.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Elevated above the land except in key parts, the building ensures the ground is intact and allows it to stay permeable.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Photovoltaics on the roof generate electricity for the building and rainwater cisterns collect water for use inside the facility.

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Garducho Biological Center-Ventura Trindade Architects

Designed by Ventura Trindade Architects, and completed in 2009, the Garducho Biological Center in Mourão, Portugal is a site sensitive construction built to aid in the preservation of the region's natural beauty. Because of its incredibly isolated location, the center operates completely off grid and generates its own power via a photovoltaic system set on the roof. Water saving measures were also important in the design, and the structure both collects and stores captured rainwater.